If you've never seen it, please treat yourself. Just don't let this review spoil the ending for you, ok? I've seen Harold & Maude only twice - first in 1972, as a teenager. when I identified with Bud Cort's alienation and aimlessness. The anti-establishment jabs (military, motorcycle cop) still work as hilarious satire. What has changed is my perspective, now that I'm closer in age to Ruth Gordon! And with this most recent viewing, I've found a flaw, though it can be forgiven. I don't buy the suicide. It seems at odds with Maude's joie de vrie, and certainly inconsiderate to Harold. How much more poignant it would've been for her to pass away naturally, especially during their final scene together. This doesn't spoil the movie but it slightly dilutes the message for those of us now wishing to pursue Maude's zest for life for as long as possible!
Reviews
6 Reviews
The Great Race
(1965)
Spectacular Big-Budget Eye Candy
4 October 2020
I'm heartened to see all the affectionate reviews devoted here. I watch this film once a year, possibly because I loved it so much as a kid, on the big screen. The humor is broad, the performances over the top, the production values are eye-popping, the abundant set pieces expertly choreographed by Blake Edwards (who was a master at the abrupt pause / double-take). It must be said that Natalie was a scrumptious treasure, and she pulls off more than a few genuine laughs on her own. The movie is 2hr 40 minutes of comfort food but expect to take a break in the middle.
Khartoum
(1966)
Must See in Widescreen Letterbox
23 September 2020
The script is good, the acting's fine, and if you know nothing about the Sudan, this history lesson will do. But this is primarily a visually stunning epic from1966 when action and extras and spectacle were orchestrated with thrilling realism. Excellent cinematography, and FIVE major battle scenes expertly conjured by Yakima Canutt. Just saw this for the first time in 2020; its elegantly framed compositions are a real treat if viewed in Ultra-Panavision widescreen.
An Education
(2009)
Breakout
14 August 2020
Superb entertainment with a breakout performance by Carey Mulligan portraying a 16-year-old girl clever beyond her years, yearning for substance beyond the provincial. Seductive 1961 period flavor, great performances all around. Mulligan holds her own with Emma Thompson in a riveting scene toward the end where she summarizes her character's (her generation's?) frustration with English order; I've replayed this scene innumerable times. A wonderfully written and directed film introducing a most charismatic new star.
Heaven's Gate
(1980)
It's not bad...
4 July 2020
It's just too long, with no dramatic thrust or narrative conflict other than 'bad guys are on their way to get you'. However, you will never see a more authentic re-creation of the immigrants' quest in the west. Costuming, sets, abundant props, thousands of extras and horses and wagons... all $35 million spent is on display, even in the 2 hr 35 minute cut. Actors are OK but their characters are dull; Huppert comes off best, conveying her personal charm against the odds. Worth seeing for the spectacle, and if you enjoy bloody carnage, the climax delivers.
To Kill a Mockingbird
(1962)
A Clear and Uncluttered Eye
20 June 2020
Equal parts heartwarming and heartrending, this is one of the tiny number of films that is hard to overpraise. Deep south depression-era prejudice is filtered clear and uncluttered through the eyes of white children. I watched this again on Juneteenth and its quiet, gentle impact is devastating. Peck is wonderful, of course, but the kids are incredible. Every scene is crafted by Robert Mulligan with creativity and realism. The final 20 minutes flip from harrowing to something that feels like prayer. If you saw this as a kid in 1962, you watched the story unfold with an innocent eye. As a grownup in 2020, and certainly if you have kids of your own, you'll be an emotional wreck halfway through. The film is every bit as satisfying as the book.
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